Amid rapidly escalating military tensions with India, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has stated that the nuclear option is "not on the cards right now," while warning that any further deterioration in the situation could have far-reaching consequences beyond the region.

In an interview with Geo News on Friday, Asif addressed the growing conflict and suggested that while Pakistan remains committed to strategic restraint, it is also aware of the serious implications of India's recent provocations.

“I am telling the world that this is not going to be confined to the region only; it could be much wider […] destruction,” the defence minister said, in reference to the potential fallout of continued hostilities between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

Asif emphasized that Pakistan’s strategic patience is being tested. “Our options are being reduced considering the situation India is creating,” he said, suggesting that the Indian government's actions are narrowing the space for de-escalation.

However, the minister confirmed that no meeting of the National Command Authority (NCA)—the apex body responsible for Pakistan’s nuclear decision-making—has been convened as of now, suggesting that there are no immediate plans for nuclear engagement.

The remarks come in the backdrop of growing regional anxiety, as military confrontations have intensified in recent days along contested borders. Both sides have yet to issue any formal indication of de-escalation efforts, and tensions remain high.

As international observers express concern over the potential for wider conflict, Islamabad has urged the global community to play a constructive role in de-escalating the situation, warning that unchecked aggression could spiral into a crisis with global ramifications. (ILKHA)